Cornell adds rule banning wild game processing after viral bear carving incident
Cornell University introduced a policy prohibiting the preparation of wild game in campus kitchens, directly responding to a 2025 incident where two students butchered a black bear in a dormitory kitchen.
Following a widely shared video of two Cornell students dissecting a black bear inside a dormitory kitchen, the university has adopted a rule that bars any processing of wild or game animals in its communal cooking facilities. The incident, which occurred in 2025 at Ganędagǫ Hall, sparked intense backlash on social media and led state regulators to examine the situation. Aaron Chin, one of the participants, revealed details on the MeatEater podcast, noting that he and his hunting partner had verified campus regulations before bringing the carcass onto campus.
Despite the controversy, a New York Department of Environmental Conservation inspector reported no code breaches after inspecting the kitchen. Cornell confirmed to a student newspaper that the new policy was a direct reaction to the bear-butchering episode. Media outlets, including several outlets, sought further comment from the university and Chin.
Why it matters
The policy change shows how viral campus incidents can prompt institutions to tighten health and safety rules.
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